It’s that time of year when Manchester grows it’s winter skin and transforms into a winter wonderland, filled with Christmas markets, mulled wine, rides and some sugar filled classics. You’ll most certainly feel as though you’re in Santa’s hometown. Ho Ho Ho!
We’ve rounded up some of the best things to do in Manchester in the run up to Christmas that are sure to give you all the festive feels. So it goes without saying but, eat, drink and be merry! Lets sleigh…
The Return of the Christmas Markets
If you haven’t already visited the Christmas Markets, where have you been?
Manchester Christmas Market is one of the oldest in the UK, and this long standing market gets better year after year. So why does this cities market attract so many visitors? Prehaps, it could be Mancesters modern approach, whilst embracing a more international way. There’s over 300 stalls linining a number of streets all leading back to its hub- St Alberts Square. Food, gifts and hot chocolate galore and of course, some very tasty mulled wine.
We recommend you go on an empty stomach as there are so many delicious food stalls to indulge in, from Northern Soul’s dreamy toasties, traditional bratwurst to the must have Dutch mini pancakes (see picture below and you’ll see why they’re a must have).
Ice up your life! It’s time to wrap up warm and take a trip to the ‘coolest’ place to visit this Christmas. Featuring Manchester’s one and only ice bar, the south pacific themed tiki bar provides the ultimate chilled night out with a range of icy cocktails including the ‘Manc-ini’, ‘Manchester Sea-Freeze’ and ‘Sex on the Snow!’ We love it snow much and know you will too. Not to mention, it’s the perfect place to snap a few pics and get that instagrid up to scratch.
The Northern Quarter artisan Christmas Makers Market is the perfect place to escape the crowds of the main Christmas market without missing out on the Christmas spirit.
With products being made locally it’s great if you want to support your neighbours plus, alongside the makers, bakers and creators there will be street food vendors serving up some tasty treats from woodfire cooked pizza to medittereanen mezze platters – all ready to warm those chilly finger tips! Throughout the market you will be able to sit back and relax whilst listening to the choirs, live performances and DJ - all adding to the Christmas spectacle!
This alternative market will take place every weekend in the same location – ending on the 22nd December.
Best places to enjoy a Christmas Tipple
Tis’ the season to be jolly, so here are the best places to enjoy a festive drink or two this Christmas.
Dive NQ
Only a short walk away from Moda Angel Gardens, this Northern Quarter spot will be serving up their very own Christmas cocktails along with mulled wines and boozy hot chocolates plus, they have the place for the perfect Insta-shot, their brand new Christmas tipi on the rooftop!
20 Stories
In collaboration with Talisker Whiskey, 20 stories have created a menu of delicious winter warmers including hot toddies, mulled wine and flavoured hot chocolates. All of which are served to you in a giant igloo – you’ll definitely leave here feeling festive!
Alberts Schloss
You’ll always see this bar featured on our ‘must go to’ bars in Manchester and this Christmas they’re giving you even more reasons to want to visit as they’re adding a Bavarian touch to their festive drinks menu this year. The menu is set to include a creative spin on the traditional egg nog style beverage, Gluhwein and other Christmas themed drinks.
